While it can be easy to let winter’s inclement conditions overshadow the season (as we wonder how best to spend our days when it’s pouring rain outside), it’s actually the best time to curl up on the sofa with a new series. And luckily, in the age of streaming, there is a veritable smorgasbord of options available to us at the click of a button, from dramatic thrillers to heartfelt dramas, playing across Neon, Netflix, Amazon, Apple and more. Here, we have rounded up 5 excellent new TV shows that are streaming right now, and that we think are the perfect thing to watch when the weather is bad.
Drops of God
Loosely based on a beloved manga of the same name, this enthralling new Apple TV+ show offers a captivating tale of family, competition, and the world of wine. The story revolves around the death of Alexandre Léger, a renowned wine expert, and the incredible inheritance he leaves behind: a cellar filled with 87,000 bottles worth a staggering $100 million. The plot thickens as two contenders, Alexandre’s estranged daughter Camille and his protégé Issei, vie for the coveted inheritance. With a gripping narrative (that delves into the complexities of intertwined family histories) and stunning visuals that span from the sun-drenched vineyards of France to the sleek streets of Tokyo, Drops of God encapsulates ideas of passion, redemption, and the pursuit of one’s true calling — an absolute must-watch.
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The Diplomat
In this gripping, new Netflix drama series, audiences are thrown into the world of high-stakes political intrigue and the complexities of relationships in that context. Led by an exceptional Keri Russell, the show follows Kate Wyler, a seasoned civil servant unexpectedly thrust into the role of the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Against a backdrop of international tensions following a devastating attack on a British aircraft carrier, Kate must navigate delicate diplomatic negotiations, forge strategic alliances, and grapple with the challenges of sustaining her marriage to fellow diplomat Hal Wyler. Showcasing sharp humour and a refreshing blend of authenticity and speed, The Diplomat is a riveting thriller that captivates and challenges, exploring the delicate (and always captivating) balance between the personal and the political.
The Great (Season 3)
The highly-anticipated return of The Great for its third season immerses viewers once again in the opulent world of Catherine the Great’s Russia. Elle Fanning breathes life into the iconic empress as she navigates treacherous political landscapes, defying both her husband and her subjects in a relentless pursuit of power. While historical accuracy continues to take a back seat in favour of a delightfully campy narrative, the show captivates with its blend of political intrigue, cultural upheaval and simmering sensuality. Season 3 introduces shifting dynamics, as alliances crumble and unexpected deaths send shockwaves through the royal court, where power, passion, and peril collide.
Chimp Empire
For documentary lovers, Chimp Empire invites audiences into the mesmerising world of Uganda’s Ngogo Forest, where the largest chimpanzee troop ever recorded thrives. Guided by the enchanting narration of actor Mahershala Ali, this new Netflix TV show delivers an immersive audiovisual experience that delves deep into the lives of these remarkable primates. Over the course of a year, viewers witness the tumultuous battles, poignant transformations, and intricate social dynamics that shape the tribe’s history via stunning cinematography, Offering profound insights into the complex lives of our closest animal relatives, this remarkable documentary is an absolute must-watch.
Dead Ringers
Based on the excellent 1988 original, Amazon Prime Video’s adaptation of Dead Ringers is a stunning reinterpretation that pays homage to its inspiration while standing firmly on its own merits. Anchored by a career-defining performance by Rachel Weisz as twin gynecologists, Elliot and Beverly Mantle, who want to open a new kind of birthing centre that harnesses cutting-edge tech (and will make huge profit), the narrative follows the journey of the twins as they perform controversial procedures on infertile women. The visual effects seamlessly support Weisz’s chilling dual portrayal, while the narrative explores themes of women reclaiming control over their bodies. With exceptional direction from Sean Durkin and Karyn Kusama, the series maintains a consistent tone and builds an escalating tension that culminates in a riveting and unrelenting finale.
